Winter in Japan (Sapporo Snow Festival)

Welcome to Japan and the timeless city of Kyoto, where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with everyday life. Once the imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years, Kyoto is home to an extraordinary collection of temples, tranquil gardens, historic districts and beautifully preserved wooden townhouses. Even in winter, the city has a magical atmosphere, with crisp air, peaceful shrines and the occasional dusting of snow adding to its undeniable charm.

We don't want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don't, we recommend you arrive by 5.30pm to meet your guide and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

Today, we'll escape the city and venture into the peaceful countryside surrounding Kyoto, where snow-dusted temples and traditional villages offer a glimpse into Japan of centuries past.

Our first stop is the serene Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara, nestled amongst towering cedar forests in the northern hills of Kyoto. Particularly magical during winter, the temple's moss gardens, ancient stone pathways and centuries-old buildings take on a tranquil beauty beneath a blanket of snow.

From here, we'll continue to the picturesque village of Miyama, one of Japan's best-preserved rural communities. Home to dozens of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, many still occupied today, Miyama feels like stepping into a living postcard. We'll savour a traditional Japanese-style lunch before we visit the Miyama Folk Museum to learn about the area's history and have free time to explore the charming village.

Later, we'll return to Kyoto, where the evening is yours to enjoy. Our hotel's prime location beside the historic Gion District makes it the perfect opportunity to wander lantern-lit streets and browse boutique shops.

Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

This morning, we'll bid farewell to Kyoto and make our way to Kyoto Station, where we'll board the Limited Express Thunderbird bound for Fukui. Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as bustling city streets give way to rolling countryside and snow-dusted landscapes. On arrival, we'll meet our coach and find somewhere to stop for some well-deserved lunch.

Then it's off to the Takefu Knife Village, home to some of Japan's finest bladesmiths. For more than 700 years, artisans here have been perfecting the craft of forging exceptionally sharp knives using techniques passed down through generations. We'll tour the museum and factory, watching skilled craftspeople transform glowing steel into beautifully balanced kitchen knives and traditional blades.

From here, we'll continue to Urushi no Sato Kaikan, also known as the Echizen Lacquerware Hall. This fascinating cultural centre celebrates one of Japan's oldest traditional crafts, with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Browse impressive exhibitions showcasing exquisitely decorated lacquerware before watching a master craftsman demonstrate the intricate techniques used to produce these elegant pieces.

Later this afternoon, we'll continue to Kanazawa, arriving in time to check into our hotel. The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps head out in search of a local restaurant, wander the city's atmospheric streets or simply relax ahead of tomorrow's adventures.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today we'll discover the timeless charm of Kanazawa, starting with a visit to the atmospheric Nagamachi Samurai District, once home to city's most powerful samurai families. Wander along narrow stone lanes lined with earthen walls, traditional residences and peaceful canals as we step back into Japan's feudal era. Here, we'll also visit the beautifully preserved Nomura House, a former samurai residence that offers a fascinating glimpse into the refined lifestyle of a high-ranking warrior family.

We'll then make our way to Kenroku-en Garden, considered one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped grounds, where tranquil ponds, elegant teahouses and centuries-old pine trees create picture-perfect scenes at every turn. During winter, the garden is especially captivating, with its iconic yukitsuri rope supports protecting the branches from heavy snowfall while adding to the garden's unmistakable beauty.

After some free time at Omicho Market for lunch, we'll dive into one of the city's most celebrated traditions.

Special Experience: Try your hand at creating your own one-of-a-kind souvenir during a gold leaf workshop in Kanazawa. Producing more than 99% of Japan's gold leaf, Kanazawa has been synonymous with this delicate craft for centuries. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you'll carefully apply wafer-thin sheets of shimmering gold using traditional techniques, gaining an appreciation for the remarkable craftsmanship behind this centuries-old art while taking home a unique souvenir of your time in Japan.

Later, we'll explore the charming Higashi Chaya District, one of Japan's best-preserved geisha districts. Wander through atmospheric streets lined with beautifully restored wooden teahouses, boutique shops and traditional cafés, where it feels as though little has changed for centuries.

Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.

This morning, we'll farewell Kanazawa and walk with our guide to the station before boarding the Hokuriku Shinkansen bound for Nagano. Relax and enjoy an unforgettable journey aboard Japan's world-renowned bullet train as we travel through the picturesque countryside of central Japan.

Upon arrival, we'll meet our coach and make our way towards the mountains of Yamanouchi. There'll be time to grab some lunch or snacks before we continue to one of Japan's most iconic winter attractions.

Special Experience: Venture into the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where wild Japanese macaques gather to soak in naturally heated hot springs surrounded by the spectacular alpine landscape. Watching these playful monkeys relax amongst the steam and snow is an unforgettable wildlife encounter unique to Japan.

To reach the park, we'll enjoy a scenic walk through the forest along a 1.6-kilometre trail. While the path is well maintained, it can be uneven and snow-covered during winter, so sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. The reward is well worth the effort, with plenty of time to observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and capture some incredible photographs.

Later this afternoon, we'll return to Nagano and check into our hotel for the night.

Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking across uneven, snow-covered trails.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is all about embracing Japan's enchanting winter scenery as we journey through the picturesque landscapes of Saitama Prefecture. Sit back, relax and enjoy a scenic drive through rolling mountains, charming rural towns and peaceful valleys as we make our way towards Tokyo.

Our first stop is the riverside town of Nagatoro, renowned for its spectacular natural beauty. Here, we'll enjoy a memorable kotatsu boat ride, drifting gently along the Arakawa River aboard a traditional wooden boat fitted with a heated kotatsu table.

Continuing to Yokoze, we'll discover one of Japan's most magical winter spectacles at the Ashigakubo Icicles. Created using natural spring water, these towering frozen formations transform the mountainside into a shimmering wonderland of ice, offering incredible photo opportunities and an unforgettable glimpse into Japan's winter beauty.

Later this afternoon, we'll continue our journey to the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo. After checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps venture out to experience Tokyo's dazzling lights, bustling streets and incredible dining scene.

Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking across uneven, snow-covered trails.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day with a leisurely morning to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Perhaps grab a coffee from a local café, browse the nearby shops or simply soak up the energy of one of the world's most exciting cities before this afternoon's adventures begin.

Our first experience is one that's sure to delight food lovers. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on ramen-making class, where we'll learn how to prepare everything from fresh noodles and flavour-packed broth to delicious toppings, before sitting down to enjoy your homemade creation. Best of all, you'll take the recipe home to recreate a taste of Japan long after your holiday ends!

After lunch, we'll delve into Tokyo's fascinating past at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where engaging exhibits bring centuries of history to life. Discover how the city evolved from the small castle town of Edo into the vibrant global metropolis we know today, gaining insight into the people, traditions and events that shaped modern Japan.

We'll then head to the iconic Tokyo Tower, where an observation deck offers sweeping panoramic views across the sprawling city skyline. On a clear winter's day, you may even catch a glimpse of majestic Mount Fuji rising in the distance.

This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. With countless restaurants, lively entertainment precincts and hidden local eateries to choose from, Tokyo is the perfect place to enjoy dinner at your own pace.

This morning, we'll leave the bright lights of Tokyo behind as we transfer to the airport for our flight to Sapporo, the gateway to Hokkaidō's spectacular winter wonderland. As we fly north, watch the landscape transform into snow-covered forests, frozen rivers and rugged mountain ranges, setting the scene for the next chapter of our adventure.

On arrival, we'll make the journey to Shikaribetsuko Kotal, a magical igloo village that appears each year on the frozen shores of Lake Shikaribetsu. Built entirely from snow and ice, this unique winter attraction features beautifully crafted igloos, ice sculptures and cosy snow structures that showcase the creativity and ingenuity of Hokkaidō's winter traditions. Take time to wander through this enchanting frozen village and admire one of Japan's most unique seasonal attractions.

Later, we'll arrive at our traditional ryokan in Tokachi. After settling into your room, perhaps take the opportunity to unwind with a relaxing soak in the onsen before we come together for a beautifully prepared kaiseki dinner. Showcasing seasonal ingredients and artfully presented dishes, this multi-course meal is one of Japan's most celebrated dining traditions.

As evening falls, we'll take a short walk to the enchanting Tokachigawa Onsen Hakucho (Swan) Festival Sairinka. The stroll itself is part of the experience, with beautiful winter illuminations lighting our way. At the festival, colourful lights, glowing sculptures and artistic displays transform the snowy landscape into a magical wonderland.

Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Soak up the last of Tokachi this morning before we make our way to the peaceful lakeside town of Lake Akan. One of today's scenic highlights is a drive down the beautiful Tokachi Farm White Birch Avenue. Lined with elegant white birch trees stretching into the distance, this peaceful avenue is particularly striking during winter, when fresh snow blankets the ground and the slender trunks stand in beautiful contrast against the crisp blue sky. It's a wonderful opportunity to capture a few memorable photographs.

Early this afternoon, we'll arrive at Lake Akan, nestled amongst the mountains of eastern Hokkaidō. Here, we'll visit the festive Akan Ice Land, where the frozen lake becomes a playground of unique seasonal activities.

Special Experience: Experience the uniquely Japanese tradition of wakasagi ice fishing before enjoying a bite of your freshly caught fish. From the comfort of a heated tent, we'll fish through holes drilled into the frozen lake in search of tiny Japanese pond smelt. Best of all, our freshly caught fish will be cooked into crispy tempura for us to enjoy on the spot, making this a truly authentic taste of a Hokkaidō winter.

Afterwards, you'll have free time to explore Ice Land Akan at your own pace. With plenty of optional winter activities available, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

This evening, we'll check in to our hotel and enjoy a delicious buffet dinner before heading out on foot to experience the enchanting Lake Akan Ice Festival. Admire dazzling ice sculptures illuminated against the night sky before the festivities culminate in a spectacular fireworks display.

Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking across uneven, snow-covered trails.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Wake up to the peaceful beauty of Lake Akan, where snow-covered forests and crisp mountain air create the perfect winter setting. The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure, giving you the chance to relax or embrace even more of Hokkaidō's snowy atmosphere.

Perhaps enjoy a slow morning at the hotel, unwind with a soothing soak in the onsen or take a peaceful stroll along the lakeside, where the tranquil scenery offers countless opportunities for memorable photographs. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, head back to Akan Ice Land, where a variety of exciting winter activities await. Race across the frozen lake on a snowmobile, climb aboard a fun-filled banana boat ride, test your skills in an ice buggy or simply soak up the lively vibe of this unique seasonal attraction.

The afternoon, we'll journey to the coastal city of Abashiri. Our first stop is the fascinating Abashiri Prison Museum, an open-air museum that brings to life the history of Japan's most famous prison through preserved buildings and engaging exhibits. We'll then visit the Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum, where you'll learn about the remarkable drift ice that forms each winter on the Sea of Okhotsk, one of the southernmost places in the Northern Hemisphere where this rare natural phenomenon occurs. After exploring Abashiri, we'll return to the peaceful surroundings of Lake Akan.

Later this evening, we'll come together once again to enjoy a delicious buffet dinner at the hotel. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, share stories from the day and savour another memorable evening in Japan's beautiful winter wonderland.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

We farewell the serene Lake Akan this morning as we head towards the hot spring town of Sounkyo.

On the way, we'll stop in the coastal city of Mombetsu for one of the highlights of our winter adventure. Set sail aboard the famous Garinko-go icebreaker and venture onto the icy Sea of Okhotsk. As the ship's powerful drills crunch through drifting sea ice, you'll experience one of the world's rarest natural phenomena up close while keeping an eye out for seals and seabirds that call these frozen waters home.

After some free time for lunch, we'll continue to our next destination. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snow-covered mountains, the peaceful alpine village of Sounkyo is the perfect place to experience Hokkaidō during the wintertime.

Here we'll experience the Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival, held each winter beside the Ishikari River, this enchanting festival features towering ice sculptures, frozen tunnels and colourful illuminations that transform the valley into a magical winter wonderland.

This evening we continue to Asahikawa and check into our hotel.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.

After a morning at leisure, we're off to visit the Asahikawa Winter Festival, Hokkaidō's second-largest winter celebration and home to some of the biggest snow sculptures in the world. Towering creations carved from enormous amounts of snow and ice dominate the festival grounds, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and creativity. Spend time wandering amongst the dazzling displays, snapping photos and soaking up the lively festival atmosphere.

Later this afternoon, we'll arrive in Hokkaidō's capital, Sapporo, and check into our hotel.

This evening is yours to experience one of Japan's most famous winter events, the Sapporo Snow Festival. Wander amongst enormous snow sculptures, illuminated displays and bustling festival streets, or sample delicious local cuisine from the many food stalls as the city comes alive in celebration of winter.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is yours to soak in the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival. Held annually since 1950, the festival now attracts millions of visitors from around the globe.

Special Experience: Admire enormous sculptures, intricate ice carvings and lively entertainment as Odori Park transforms into the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival — one of the world's greatest celebrations of winter. After breakfast, we'll meet our guide and use Sapporo's efficient subway network to explore the festival like a local. Our first stop is Odori Park, where colossal snow sculptures tower above visitors and showcase the incredible skill and creativity of artists from across Japan and around the world.

We'll then continue to the Susukino festival site, dedicated to the theme of “Enjoy the Ice”. Here, around 100 beautifully carved ice sculptures sparkle throughout the entertainment district, ranging from intricate frozen masterpieces to illuminated displays and even an ice bar.

We'll return to the hotel before the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Perhaps head back to the festival to revisit your favourite displays, explore the family-friendly Tsudome site, browse the bustling food stalls serving delicious Hokkaido specialities or simply enjoy the city's festive atmosphere at your own pace.

This evening, we'll regroup for our farewell dinner, where we'll celebrate an incredible journey together over an indulgent buffet featuring one of Hokkaidō's greatest delicacies, fresh crab, alongside a delicious selection of local seafood and regional favourites.

Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Our unforgettable winter adventure through Japan comes to an end after breakfast this morning.

We hope you'll leave with incredible memories of snow-covered temples, spectacular winter festivals, steaming hot springs, unique cultural experiences and the friendships made along the way.